UPDATE: Firefighters are demanding the immediate resignation of Fire Rescue Victoria Commissioner Gavin Freeman following a controversial award that has sparked outrage within the service. The Institute of Public Administration Australia has awarded Freeman a fellowship for excellence, a decision fiercely criticized by the United Firefighters Union (UFU), which claims the fire service is in “crisis” under his leadership.
Just hours ago, Peter Marshall, UFU secretary, publicly condemned the award, stating, “The fire service has never been as broken as it is now.” His comments come amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions, with over 90 percent of union members voting against Freeman in a recent no-confidence motion.
This urgent situation was highlighted today when approximately 30 off-duty firefighters gathered outside Flinders Street Station, distributing flyers to inform the public about the ongoing crisis linked to Freeman’s leadership. The UFU is targeting 34 marginal Labor electorates as they rally support ahead of the November 2026 state election.
Marshall criticized the government for prioritizing consultants while essential fire equipment remains outdated, posing a serious risk to both firefighters and the public as another fire season approaches. He asserted, “Firefighters put their life on the line daily, and they’ve been let down by this government very badly.”
“How can there be an award for excellence? Excellence in what? Dismantling the fire service?”
The fellowship awarded to Freeman is said to recognize his ability to create “lasting public value,” a claim that Marshall vehemently disputes. He emphasized that this award feels like “the largest slap in the face” to firefighters, questioning the integrity of the award process.
While the award committee, comprising senior public service leaders, operates independently, the government has faced mounting pressure to address the concerns raised by the UFU. Premier Jacinta Allan has previously expressed “full confidence” in Freeman, despite calls for his dismissal echoing throughout the firefighting community.
The situation continues to develop as firefighters stand united against what they describe as a mismanagement crisis within the service. The UFU is calling for immediate action from the government, emphasizing the dire implications for public safety.
As the pressure mounts, the outcome of this conflict could significantly impact the upcoming state election and the future of fire services in Victoria. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
